Thune to speak at CPAC

In another sign that Sen. John Thune seriously is considering a bid for president, he has accepted an invitation to address an influential conservative group next month in Washington.

Thune, R-S.D., has declined a request to speak before the Conservative Political Action Conference, or CPAC, in the past, but the senator was able to make the Feb. 10-12 event this year, spokesman Kyle Downey said.

"Senator Thune's schedule did not allow for him to attend CPAC previously, but that is not the case this year, and the senator is looking forward to addressing this annual gathering of leading conservatives," Downey said.